Tal Jones named Business and Innovation Champion at SOAR Innovation

LONDON, Ky. – William “Tal” Jones has been named a Business and Innovation Champion of SOAR Innovation. He will serve Montgomery, Clark, Estill, Madison, Garrard, Lincoln, Rockcastle, Pulaski, Laurel, Whitley, Wayne, McCreary, Knox, and Bell counties. Jones will work out of an office at the Kentucky Highlands investment Corporation in London, Ky.

SOAR Innovation is a new partnership between Shaping Our Appalachian Region, Inc. (SOAR) and the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development’s KY Innovation office. SOAR Innovation will assist existing small businesses and entrepreneurs whose business or idea has the capability to expand existing markets or create new markets by leveraging technology.

“Tal has extensive experience as a small business owner,” said Ryan Jones, director of SOAR Innovation. “He understands, firsthand, the challenges facing entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout the region. He also understands the opportunities and how technology can play a role in creating new markets for our clients.”

Jones comes to SOAR Innovation from Merit Oil and Gas, where he serves as owner. He also serves as a member of the Pine Mountain Regional Industrial Development Board.

“I am excited to be a part of the team at SOAR Innovation,” said Jones. “I believe that technology has leveled the playing field for entrepreneurs and small business owners in eastern Kentucky, and SOAR Innovation will be a catalyst to allow small businesses and entrepreneurs to create new markets and expand existing ones.”

As a Business and Innovation Champion, Jones will work throughout his service area to identify and build relationships with existing small businesses that have the desire and capacity to scale-up utilizing technology through methods of e-commerce, export, etc.